Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 large bitter melon, seeded and cut into 1/4 inch thick slices
- 1 block of firm tofu, cut into 1/2 inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Special Equipment Needed:
- Large skillet
- Wooden spoon
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the bitter melon slices and cook for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add the tofu cubes and cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add the garlic, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, brown sugar, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir to combine.
5. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Serve hot.
Time:
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Temperature: Medium-high heat
Serving Size: 4
Nutritional Information:
Calories: 173
Fat: 11.6 g
Carbohydrates: 10.3 g
Protein: 8.6 g
Substitutions for Ingredients:
- Bitter melon: zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers
- Tofu: tempeh or seitan
- Soy sauce: tamari or coconut aminos
- Rice vinegar: white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- Sesame oil: olive oil or avocado oil
- Brown sugar: coconut sugar or maple syrup
Variations:
- Add 1/2 cup of cooked quinoa or brown rice for a heartier dish.
- Add 1/2 cup of frozen peas or corn for added texture and flavor.
- Add 1/4 cup of chopped fresh herbs such as cilantro or basil for a fresh flavor.
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure to cut the bitter melon and tofu into evenly sized pieces so they cook evenly.
- If you don't like the bitter flavor of the bitter melon, you can blanch it in boiling water for 1 minute before adding it to the stir fry.
Storage Instructions:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions:
Reheat in a skillet over medium-high heat until warmed through.
Presentation Ideas:
Serve over cooked quinoa or brown rice and top with fresh herbs such as cilantro or basil.
Garnishes:
Sesame seeds, chopped green onions, or crushed red pepper flakes.
Pairings:
Serve with steamed vegetables or a side salad.
Suggested Side Dishes:
Steamed vegetables, a side salad, or cooked quinoa or brown rice.
Troubleshooting Advice:
If the stir fry is too dry, add a tablespoon of water or vegetable broth to the skillet.
Food Safety Advice:
Refrigerate leftovers within two hours of cooking and consume within 3 days.
Food History:
Bitter melon is a popular vegetable in Chinese and Southeast Asian cuisine and has been used for centuries.
Flavor Profiles:
This dish has a savory and slightly bitter flavor with a hint of sweetness from the brown sugar.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve as a main dish or as a side dish with other stir-fried vegetables.
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Region: Chinese